Xianü (short story)

Xianü (仙女) is a short story written by the renowned Chinese author Lu Xun, originally published in 1926. The title translates literally to "Fairy Maiden" or "Celestial Woman."

The story is a part of Lu Xun's collection Wild Grass (野草), a series of prose poems characterized by their symbolic and often enigmatic nature. Xianü explores themes of disillusionment, the allure of the unattainable, and the critical examination of traditional ideals. It deconstructs the romanticized image of the fairy maiden often found in Chinese folklore, presenting a more complex and ambiguous figure.

The narrative centers on the encounter of a mortal with a xianü, a celestial being. However, instead of a harmonious and uplifting interaction, the encounter highlights the vast chasm between the human and the divine. The xianü is portrayed as distant and ultimately incapable of providing genuine solace or understanding to the protagonist.

The short story employs a dreamlike and fragmented style, using vivid imagery and metaphorical language to convey its complex themes. Readers and critics have interpreted the xianü figure in various ways, including as a symbol of unreachable beauty, an idealized version of the past, or a representation of the revolutionary's own internal struggles.

Xianü is considered a significant work in understanding Lu Xun's later writing style and his critical perspective on Chinese society and culture. Its brevity and evocative language contribute to its lasting impact within the context of modern Chinese literature.